Designation: E 1320 – 05

Standard Reference Radiographs for

Titanium Castings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E 1320; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents

1.1 The reference radiographs provided in the adjunct to this 2.1 ASTM Standards: 2
standard are reproductions of original radiographs and are E 94 Guide for Radiographic Examination
supplied as a means for establishing some of the categories and E 1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
severity levels of discontinuities in titanium castings that may 2.2 ASTM Adjuncts:
be revealed by radiographic examination. Use of this standard Reference Radiographs for the Inspection of Titanium Cast-
for the specification or grading of castings requires procure- ings
ment of the adjunct reference radiographs which illustrate the Volume I, applicable up to 1 in. [25.4 mm]3,4
discontinuity types and severity levels. They should be used in Volume II, applicable over 1 in. to 2 in. [25.4 mm to 50.8
accordance with contractual specifications. mm]4,5
NOTE 1—The original radiographs produced for Volume I were taken 3. Terminology
with X-rays in the range of 110 KV to 220 KV. The original radiographs
produced for Volume II were taken with X-rays in the range of 200 K to 3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this stan-
340 KV. dard, see Terminology E 1316.
1.2 These reference radiographs consist of two volumes. 4. Significance and Use
Volume I, described in Table 1, is applicable to a wall thickness
of up to 1 in. [0 to 25.4 mm]. Volume II, described in Table 2, 4.1 These reference radiographs are designed so that accep-
is applicable to a wall thickness of over 1 in. to 2 in. [25.4 mm tance standards, which may be developed for particular re-
to 50.8 mm]. The standard may be used, where there is no other quirements, can be specified in terms of these radiographs. The
applicable standard, for other thicknesses for which agreement radiographs are of castings that were produced under condi-
has been reached between purchaser and manufacturer. tions designed to produce the discontinuities. The reference
1.3 The plates produced to serve for use in this standard radiographs are intended to be used for casting thickness
were purposely cast to exhibit the desired discontinuity. The ranges in accordance with Table 1 and Table 2.
plates were cast using different processes as shown in Table 1 5. Description of Discontinuities
and Table 2. Hot isostatic pressing was not used on any of the
5.1 This section is provided to aid in the identification and
plates.
classification of discontinuities. It briefly describes the radio-
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
graphic appearance of those discontinuities in the reference
as the standard. The values given in brackets are for informa-
radiograph adjuncts and indicates their probable cause in
tional purposes only.
titanium. The radiographic appearance of different discontinui-
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
ties can at times be very similar. Therefore, care should always
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- 2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
3
Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Reference Radio-
1
This standard is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde- graph No. RRE132001.
4
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.02 on Volumes I and II are available from ASTM International Headquarters as a set.
Reference Radiographs. Order Reference Radiographs RRE1320CS.
5
Current edition approved January 1, 2005. Published January 2005. Originally Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Reference Radio-
approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2000 as E 1320 - 00. graph No. RRE132002.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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 E 1320 – 05
TABLE 1 VOLUME I—0 to 1 in.
Plate Applicable Casting
Discontinuity Casting Process Alloy
Thickness, in. Thickness, in.
Gas hole Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V N/A up to 1
Clustered holes Centrifugal precision Ti 6AL 4V ⁄
14 up to 3⁄8
Clustered holes Centrifugal precision Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 2 over 3⁄8 to ⁄
58

Clustered holes Centrifugal precision Ti 6AL 4V 3⁄ 4 over 5⁄8 to 1

Scattered gas holes Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 4 up to 3⁄8
Scattered gas holes Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 2 over 3⁄8 to ⁄
58

Scattered gas holes Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 3⁄ 4 over 5⁄8 to 1
Shrinkage cavity Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 2 over 1⁄4 to ⁄
58

Shrinkage cavity Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 3⁄ 4 over 5⁄8 to 1

Scattered shrinkage cavity Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 4 up to 3⁄8
Scattered shrinkage cavity Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 2 over 3⁄8 to ⁄
58

Scattered shrinkage cavity Top pour lost wax Ti 6AL 4V 3⁄ 4 over 5⁄8 to 1
Centerline shrinkage Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 4 up to 3⁄8
Centerline shrinkage Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 1⁄ 2 over 3⁄8 to ⁄
58

Centerline shrinkage Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 3⁄ 4 over 5⁄8 to 1

Less dense inclusions Varied Ti 6AL 4V N/A up to 1
More dense inclusions Varied Ti 6AL 4V N/A up to 1

NOTE 1—1 in. = 25.4 mm.

TABLE 2 VOLUME II—Over 1 in. to 2 in.

Plate Applicable Casting
Discontinuity Casting Process Alloy
Thickness, in. Thickness, in.
Gas hole Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 11⁄4 over 1 to 2
Clustered gas holes Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 11⁄4 to 13⁄4 over 1 to 2
Scattered gas holes Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 11⁄4 over 1 to 11⁄2
Scattered gas holes Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 13⁄4 over 11⁄2 to 2
Shrinkage cavity Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 11⁄4 over 1 to 11⁄2
Shrinkage cavity Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 13⁄4 over 11⁄2 to 2
Centerline shrinkage Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 11⁄4 over 1 to 11⁄2
Centerline shrinkage Centrifugal ram graphite Ti 6AL 4V 13⁄4 over 11⁄2 to 2

NOTE 1—1 in. = 25.4 mm.

be taken during the process of identification. In extreme cases occur in titanium. Other factors which influence the formation
other methods of identification, either nondestructive or de- of shrinkage are wall thickness and thickness transition gradi-
structive, may need to be employed to obtain positive identi- ents, gate size and orientation, mold design, casting configu-
fication. ration, metal/mold temperature, and pouring rate and method.
5.1.1 Gas—Gas in its various forms is usually caused by the All the types of shrinkage described in 5.1.2.1 through 5.1.2.3
reaction of molten titanium with the mold or residual material have a degree of overlap. However, each is most likely to occur
left in the mold. Gas tends to migrate to the upper portions of under a specific set of conditions primarily influenced by metal
the casting. The formation of clustered or scattered gas holes feed, section thickness and cooling rate.
results from the generation of larger amounts of gas than a 5.1.2.1 Scattered shrinkage—Appears on a radiograph as
single gas hole. Whether the larger amount of gas spreads out dark fine lacy or filamentary voids of varying densities. These
or is confined to a small area is dependent upon a number of voids are usually uniformly spread throughout the area of the
factors including casting process, reaction area, solidification casting where shrinkage is occurring and are relatively shallow.
rate, wall thickness, and geometry. Scattered shrinkage cavities are most common in wall thick-
5.1.1.1 Gas hole—A spherical void formed through the nesses ranging from 1⁄8 in. to 3⁄4 in. [3.175 mm to 19.05 mm]
release and subsequent entrapment of gas during solidification. being more prevalent in the thinner sections of the range.
A gas hole will appear as a dark round spot on the radiograph. Scattered shrinkage cavities are caused by varying cooling
5.1.1.2 Clustered gas holes—A closely nested group of dark rates in the same area of a casting that can result from
round voids concentrated within a self-defined boundary area. differences in wall thickness or other factors.
5.1.1.3 Scattered gas holes—Multiple voids appearing as 5.1.2.2 Centerline shrinkage—Characterized by a more dis-
dark round spots on the radiograph. They are randomly spread crete dark indication than scattered shrinkage. The indication
throughout a part or area of a part to a lesser concentration than has definite borders consisting of a lacy network of varying
clustered gas holes but with the potential to degrade the casting density or a network of interconnected elongated voids. Cen-
through their interaction which precludes their evaluation on an terline shrinkage is located primarily in the center of the
individual basis. material cross section with a tendency to orient toward gates or
5.1.2 Shrinkage—While at times the appearance of shrink- risers. It is more common in thickness over 1⁄4 in. [6.35 mm].
age in titanium may be radiographically similar to shrinkage in 5.1.2.3 Shrinkage cavity—Appears as a dark void with
steel, the faster solidification rate of titanium has a dramatic smooth sides taking an appearance very similar to a gas hole.
effect on the conditions under which each shrinkage type will A shrinkage cavity, particularly in thicker wall sections, is

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 E 1320 – 05
usually larger than a single gas hole would be. The cavity is 7. Basis for Application
formed during the cooling process due to a lack of feeding 7.1 The reference radiographs may be applied as acceptance
metal. The cavity compensates for the rapid solidification standards tailored to the end use of the product. Application of
taking place at the surface of the casting, thereby forming the these reference radiographs as acceptance standards should be
cavity in the center area of the wall. Shrinkage cavity has a based on the intended use of the product and the following
definite tendency to occur near hot spots where walls are 1⁄2 in. considerations:
[12.7 mm] thick or more. 7.1.1 An area of like size to that of the reference radiograph
5.1.3 Less dense inclusions—Appear as dark indications in shall be the unit area by which the production radiograph is
a variety of shapes and sizes on a radiograph. Inclusions may evaluated, and any such area shall meet the requirements as
be found in groups or appear singularly. Less dense inclusions defined for acceptability.
can be caused by contaminants in the molten titanium, residual
7.1.2 Any combination or portion of these reference radio-
materials left on the surface of the mold, or broken pieces of
graphs may be used as is relevant to the particular application.
the mold becoming entrapped during solidification.
Different grades or acceptance limits may be specified for each
5.1.4 More dense inclusions—Appear as light indications in
discontinuity type. Further, different grades may be specified
a variety of shapes and sizes on a radiograph. More dense
for various regions or zones of the component.
inclusions can be caused by contaminants introduced in the
same manner as less dense inclusions, or tungsten introduced 7.1.3 Special consideration may be required where more
during weld repairs. than one discontinuity type is present in the same area. Any
modification of the acceptance criteria required on the basis of
6. Method of Preparation multiple discontinuity types must be specified.
6.1 The original radiographs used to prepare the adjunct 7.1.4 Production radiographs containing porosity, gas or
reference radiographs were produced on high contrast, fine inclusions may be rated by the overall condition with regard to
grained film. The radiographs were made with a penetrameter size, number, and distribution. These factors should be consid-
sensitivity as determined by ASTM penetrameters (see Guide ered in balance.
E 94) of 2-2T. The reproductions of the original radiographs 7.1.5 As a minimum, the acceptance criteria should contain
have been made with a density within the range of 2.0 to 2.25. information addressing: zoning of the part (if applicable),
They have retained substantially the contrast of the original acceptance severity level for each discontinuity type, and the
radiographs. specific area to which the reference radiographs are to be
6.2 In selecting the individual reference radiographs, the applied.
aim was to obtain a graduated series for each type of
NOTE 2—Caution should be exercised in specifying the acceptance
discontinuity. It is not intended that like numbered levels or criteria to be met in the casting. Casting design coupled with foundry
classes on the different reference radiograph pages be consid- practice should be considered. It is advisable to consult with the
ered to cause equal degradation in the ultimate performance, or manufacturer or foundry before establishing the acceptance criteria to
serviceability, or both, of any particular casting. ensure the desired quality level can be achieved.
6.2.1 The criteria used to select the individual radiographs
representing each severity level were based on the size, shape, 8. Procedure for Evaluation
spacing, alignment, and radiographic density of the disconti- 8.1 Compare the production radiographs of the casting
nuities present. submitted for evaluation with the reference radiographs appli-
6.3 In some cases, plates other than the thickness indicated cable to designated wall thickness in accordance with the
on the reference radiographs were utilized to complete indi- written acceptance criteria.
vidual severity levels. 8.2 When the severity level of discontinuities per unit area
6.4 For the discontinuity classifications of gas hole, less in the production radiograph being evaluated is equal to or
dense inclusions, and more dense inclusions, only one series of better than the severity level in the specified reference radio-
eight gradations is displayed for each. These gradations are graph, that part of the casting represented by the production
intended to be used over the entire thickness range applicable radiograph shall be acceptable. If the production radiograph
to the volume. Therefore, careful consideration should be taken shows discontinuities per unit area of greater severity than the
when specifying allowable severity levels for the thicker wall reference radiograph, that part of the casting shall not be
sizes. accepted.
6.5 Film Deterioration—Radiographic films are subject to
wear and tear from handling and use. The extent to which the 9. Application to Weld Repair Castings
image deteriorates over time is a function of storage condi-
tions, care in handling and amount of use. Reference radio- 9.1 When castings subject to this standard are repaired by
graph films are no exception and may exhibit a loss in image welding, the reference radiographs to be used in the evaluation
quality over time. The radiographs should therefore be peri- of the repaired sections must be specifically agreed upon
odically examined for signs of wear and tear, including between the purchaser and the supplier.
scratches, abrasions, stains, and so forth. Any reference radio-
graphs which show signs of excessive wear and tear which 10. Keywords
could influence the interpretation and use of the radiographs 10.1 castings; discontinuities; reference radiographs; tita-
should be replaced. nium; X-ray

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